How cold is it? Even Huntsville first responders could be in danger

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama - Paramedics are being instructed to watch out for stranded drivers, homeless people and even other paramedics and first responders who might be at risk of becoming victim to hypothermia in tonight's dangerously cold temperatures.

HEMSI Director of Operations Don Webster said tonight is the second night in recent months that has him worried that people will underestimate the dangers of the freezing temperatures.

Webster said hypothermia can begin to set in between 20 to 30 minutes after being exposed to the extreme cold, and that's for a normal person.

"Say you are in a wreck, and your car is inoperable. How long can you stay out there?" he asked. "Then if we have someone that's entrapped in their vehicle, now I'm worried about my first responders."

Webster said paramedics responding to wrecks and other calls can be in danger just as much as the patients they are helping when it comes to hypothermia at below-freezing wind-chill temperatures like the ones expected overnight.

"You worry about paramedics, police officers, firefighters, as well as the patient," he said. "They can become overcome by hypothermia."

Webster said he has instructed HEMSI paramedics to keep an eye out for anyone who seems stuck outside, as well as each other.

"We're really going to be watching the homeless, and looking out for stranded motorists," he said.

He said he's urged his staff to try and take homeless people to shelters tonight.

One Huntsville church has opened its doors after hours to house people without a place to stay warm tonight. Grateful Life Community Church is located at 207 Oakwood Ave. and welcomes any homeless or people in need of shelter tonight with open arms, the church's deacon said.

Webster said that Huntsville is going to be in "an extremely dangerous area" after 7 p.m. tonight when it comes to cold temperatures.

He said there have been no recent deaths related to cold temperatures in Madison County.